Game #1 – Player Ratings – Canadiens lose opener to Leafs 2-1 (+)

There aren’t many things that drive Montreal Canadiens fans crazier than losing a game to the Toronto Maple Leafs because of a power play that hasn’t been good since early in the Obama presidency.  The Habs had their chances to get back into the game after a terrific start and an exemplary second period by goaltender Jake Allen.  But in the end their foibles on an extended 5-on-3 man advantage in the third period was the difference in a 2-1 loss to the Leafs.  Here are your player ratings:

Goaltender

Jake Allen – 8/10

Screened into oblivion on Engvall’s opener.  After a relatively quiet first period, he earned his money in the second.  Huge stops on Nylander (don’t know how that first tip in front didn’t squeak through him and into the net).  Somehow kept several Bunting whacks in tight out. Point-blank slot shot saves on Marner and Kase.  Deserved a better fate for his work.

Defencemen